Detroit lawmaker breaks with Democrats, now independent

LANSING (AP) -- A lawmaker from Detroit is leaving the Democratic caucus in the Michigan House to become an independent because he says leadership doesn't care about African-American and urban issues.

John Olumba announced his departure from the caucus on Tuesday. That leaves majority Republicans with a 59-50 edge.

Olumba says new leadership in the House isn't prioritizing the agenda of African-Americans and Detroiters. He's angry that few black legislators from Detroit are on two top committees.

House Minority Leader Tim Greimel, who took over as leader of the Democratic caucus in January, says he's disappointed with Olumba's decision. Greimel says he reached out to Olumba several times and never heard back.

Olumba says he'll be able to work directly with Republican leadership on issues instead of being constrained by Democratic leadership.